Gilbert Teens Unite for a Day of Service

Time flies when you’re having fun and making a difference!

On April 23, United Food Bank’s volunteer center came alive with upbeat music, laughter, and a powerful sense of purpose during the first annual Gilbert Teen Service Celebration. Held in honor of Global Youth Service Day, Gilbert Public Schools, Higley Unified School District and United Food Bank wanted to recognize young people’s contributions to their communities.

This celebration welcomed 100 student leaders from seven high schools throughout Gilbert. It gave them a unique opportunity to connect with peers, pack over 2,000 food bags and enjoy a morning of fun activities, from playing beach ball games to snapping selfies with Arizona Diamondbacks’ beloved mascot, Baxter. The positive energy was contagious. 

Amidst the fun, the morning also provided a meaningful pause for reflection. Several community leaders and partners from across Gilbert took the stage to recognize the students’ commitment to service and remind everyone of the strength and promise of this next generation.

“You’re the rising generation, a promising group of young people,” Gilbert Mayor Scott Anderson said to the crowd. “We want you to have every opportunity to serve one another and those around you. That’s what you’re doing today, and we’re incredibly grateful to you.” 

Gilbert Public Schools (GPS) Superintendent and former United Food Bank board member Dr. Shane McCord also addressed the crowd by saying, 

“I am proud of every single one of you because you serve. You think of others before thinking about yourself. That is exactly what life is all about,” said McCord.  

Echoing sentiments similar to Anderson and McCord, Higley Unified School District Superintendent Sherry Richards spoke about how this event and partnership with United Food Bank will hopefully empower other young leaders to pursue community service. 

“We’ve joined together to support United Food Bank and address food insecurity across our community,” said Richards. “This volunteer event empowers our students while highlighting the importance of community service.”

At the heart of the event belonged to the students themselves, who have dedicated their time volunteering. Among the young volunteers were Dejanae and Sabrina, two Campo Verde High School students.

Last semester, Dejanae began volunteering simply to fulfill a student council requirement. However, as she started her volunteering journey, she soon realized how much she loved being part of something greater than herself.

“My favorite part about volunteering is just giving back to people,” expressed Dejanae. “I just love taking the time out of your day to give back to your community and helping people in need.”  

Sabrina, a high school senior, has accumulated over 700 service hours throughout her high school career. What she enjoys most about volunteering in her community is meeting new people. 

“It’s just really rewarding to see how I can impact other people and make their lives better,” said Sabrina. “I enjoy getting out there, meeting new people from different backgrounds, and giving my time.” 

Throughout their unique volunteer journeys, both students agree that the smallest acts of service can make a big difference.

“I have learned how much of a difference you can make by just simply stepping forward and taking action,” said Sabrina. 

The next generation of leaders isn’t waiting for change; they’re creating it. While the future can often feel uncertain, events like the Gilbert Teen Service Celebration are good reminders that today’s youth want to make a difference. After spending a morning with these incredible teens, we feel more confident that the future is in capable hands.

Thank you to all who have made this day possible, including Gilbert Public Schools, Higley Unified School District, JustServe, For Our Town Gilbert and Baxter from the Arizona Diamondbacks. We also want to give a special shoutout to Husband and Wife Law Team, including Mark Breyer, for coming out and catering lunch for these students! 

Looking for meaningful ways your family can give back or earn service hours? You’re in luck; United Food Bank is always looking for new volunteers who are passionate about giving back! Whether you’re volunteering solo, with your kids, or as part of a group, there’s a place for you here. To learn more about how you can volunteer with United Food Bank, sign up today at unitedfoodbank.org/volunteer/. For further questions, contact our Volunteer Engagement Manager at [email protected].